No trip to Idaho is complete without a visit to Hells Canyon. Located along the Oregon and Idaho border, it is the deepest canyon in the US (yes, even deeper than the Grand Canyon) and is 10 miles wide and a whopping 7,913 feet deep (that’s over 2000 feet deeper than the Grand Canyon).

If you’re already planning your trip to Idaho or considering a visit to the Gem State, you need to add Hells Canyon to your itinerary. Read on to learn more about it and how to best experience it.

What Is Hells Canyon?

Hells Canyon was formed by the Snake River and gets its name because the river cuts right through a very treacherous mountain range on the western edge of Idaho. Complete with cliffs, dark mountainsides where the sun doesn’t reach, a steep vertical drop, and the tumultuous waters of the Snake River below, Hells Canyon lives up to its name.

How to Visit Hells Canyon

Despite the treacherous terrain, it is possible to explore Hells Canyon, whether you want to hike, drive through, or are daring enough to enjoy it by boat. No matter which way you choose, you’ll get gorgeous views of the canyon as well as the Blue Mountains of Oregon and the Seven Devils Mountains in Idaho.

Hiking

If you are adventurous and want to hike, you’ll find close to 900 miles of hiking trails in the Hells Canyon Recreation Area. The area is very remote, so you should be prepared with necessary hiking supplies, consider a guide, and follow all proper safety protocols.

Be sure to stick to the marked hiking trails to keep yourself safe.

Car

You can get views of the canyon if you explore by car, but you won’t be able to see the Snake River. Your best option is to start in the town of Halfway, Idaho and take the only paved road to the canyon that leads to Hells Canyon Overlook.

If you don’t mind an unpaved road in exchange for amazing views, you can also take the road from Imnaha to the canyon.

Boat

Exploring Hells Canyon via boat down the Snake River is the best way to be able to take it all in. Whether you want to raft or take a jet boat, the ability to experience the river and see up into the canyon is something you won’t get on foot or by car.

Jet boat is the best way to go, as you can sit back and enjoy the views and experience while someone else handles the driving for you.

Plan Your Trip to Hells Canyon

As you plan your trip to Hells Canyon, think about how you want to experience it. We, of course, recommend you do so by boat. On our jet boats, you can see wildlife and experience everything the river and canyon have to offer.

If you’re ready to plan your jet boat tour, contact us at Hammer Down River Excursions to book your experience or use our convenient online booking tool.